London Underground (LU) and Network Rail has announced that Blackfriars Underground station will close from 2 March 2009 until late 2011, as part of Network Rail's Thameslink upgrade programme.

Network Rail will be redeveloping the Blackfriars station complex; works will include lengthening their platforms to accommodate the new longer trains, a new entrance to the complex on the south bank of the river Thames and the redevelopment of the Tube station.

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To accommodate these works, Blackfriars Underground station will need to close until late 2011.

Once complete, the benefits will include: step free access for both interchange and street level; an enlarged Tube ticket hall; refurbished platforms and improved access to platforms.

Richard Parry, LU's Director of Strategy and Service Development, said: "The redevelopment of Blackfriars Underground station is part of Network Rail works.

"Once the works are complete, customers will get a new upgraded station with step free access, increased capacity and better interchange facilities between the Tube and National Rail services.

"During this time, District and Circle line services will not stop at the station and customers are advised to use nearby Temple and Mansion House stations."

(CD/JM)